CDS Pathway visual

Wolverhampton's Child Development Service Pathway

The "Wolverhampton's Child Development Service Pathway", outlines the process for assessing and supporting children through the local child development services. It begins with a referral stage, where children can be referred by various professionals such as school staff, early years settings, therapists, health visitors, or parents.

Once a referral is received, it goes to the CDS Referral Panel, which reviews and actions it within a month. From there, the pathway may lead to a Joint Assessment Clinic, where a team including a paediatrician, specialist teacher, speech and language therapist, and physiotherapist conduct an initial assessment.

Depending on the outcome, the child may be directed to:

  • Special Needs Early Years Service for further assessment,
  • No Further Action, with recommendations and signposting,
  • or into an APDR cycle (Assess, Plan, Do, Review), where an Early Support Plan is agreed for ongoing support.

The pathway is designed to be used alongside the SEND Health Pathway and the under-5s Autism Diagnostic Pathway.

Community Paediatric Child Development Clinics

Child development clinics are held in the Gem centre by Community Paediatricians. It's for Children from 0-5 years where there are concerns about their development are seen in this clinic. 

What happens at the appointment? 

Your child will be seen by a doctor. The doctor takes a detailed development history and examines your child. The doctor, if required will arrange for blood/ urine tests and make appropriate referrals to other services. Follow up arrangements will be made as deemed appropriate.

How to access the service

They accept referrals from health visitors, GPs, Special Needs Early Years and Therapy Services.

How to give a compliment or compliant about the service

Contact The Gem Centre directly to access the most appropriate person or The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust service feedback can be provided by visiting Patient experience team.

Contact

  • 01902 446270
  • 01902 446275
  • The Gem Centre, Neachells Lane, Wolverhampton, West Midlands, WV11 3PG